England fell seven runs short in front of South Africa in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. With this win, the Proteas moved one step forward towards qualifying for the semifinals. Aiden Markram's magnificent catch running back from mid-off to dismiss Harry Brook changed the entire momentum of the match in the last over. It was the Proteas' day today as they held their nerve till the last ball.
Anrich Nortje was trusted with the ball in the last over with 14 runs to defend. Brook was on strike and was perfectly capable of winning the match single-handedly. However, Nortje bowled a full and on-slot delivery, and Brook chipped it into the air. Markram seized the opportunity by running backward after the ball and pulling off a blinder.
That catch by Captain Aiden Markram🔥😲🔥 #T20WC pic.twitter.com/3HyASFdIHn
— अविच्छेद -Indivisibility (@Aviccheda) June 21, 2024
Brook was dismissed on 53, and the batters who came after him failed to score 14 runs in the last five balls. With South Africa's two back-to-back wins, they are almost qualified for the semifinals, leaving one position for England, West Indies, and the USA to fill in. While the three teams have lost one match each, their last matches will be the decider and the net run rate. Hence, Group 2's upcoming matches will be nothing less than pure drama.
South Africa's unbeaten tournament so far
The South African team is one of those teams that struggled in every match but eventually won. Starting from the first match of the tournament, they have had a tough time on the ground, sometimes with the ball and sometimes with the bat. However, being the experienced side with players like Henrich Klaasen and David Miller, they got through the victory line.
Nevertheless, the collective effort made by the team in every department keeps them away from others. From batting to fielding, every player gives their best on the field, encouraging others to perform well. While the upcoming matches will be tougher, the Proteas seem to be absolutely ready to face any challenge that comes their way.
Also Read - Here's a look at the Proteas' performance in the super-8 stage in tournament history